A: The Discovery Library is on Level 5 of the Terence Lewis Building in Derriford Hospital, Plymouth.
For a map of level 5 please see here
For a guide to finding your way around the hospital please see here

Q: What are the Discovery Library opening hours?

A: The library is currently staffed from Monday – Friday 0830-1730 for counter services and enquiries, and is accessible 24 hours a day to members using compatible I.D. badge as a swipe card.

Q: Can I get access to the Discovery Library outside of staffed hours?

A: Some members can get 24 hour access to the Discovery Library and facilities using their Plymouth Hospitals NHS Trust issued staff or student ID badge (different from your library card) as swipe cards. Members from other organisations requiring 24 hour access should contact the library to arrange to obtain a temporary swipe card.Please note:Access with Plymouth Hospitals badges is now controlled by Indigo, who can be emailed at plymhelp.uk@parkindigo.com

Q: Can I borrow books out of staffed hours?

A: Registered members (click here for registration forms) can borrow books outside of staffed hours using the self-issue kiosk to the left-hand side of the gates as you leave the library. You will need to have your library card to hand and will need to have access to the library outside of staffed hours.

Q: Can I take journals out of the library to read/photocopy?

A: Journals are usually reference copies, for use in the library only and not to be taken out. Photocopying facilities are provided in the library if needed.

Q: Do I have to come in to the library to renew books I have on loan?

A: No – you are able to renew books from the Discovery Library online at http://www.swims.nhs.uk/ (choose ‘Log In Account Details’) using your barcode details from your membership card. If online renewal is not possible please contact the library with your membership card barcode and the book details and we will check the book status and get back to you.Please note:Different loan periods allow different numbers of renewals and renewal will not be approved if the book has been reserved by another library member.

Q: How do I check whether I am eligible for an Athens account?

A: Please here to check your eligibility based on the national inclusion criteria.

Q: How do I get an Athens account?

A: Go to https://openathens.nice.org.uk/. Fill in and submit your details and you will receive an email containing an activation link. (Authentication is a quick process if logged on an NHS PC or registering an NHSmail account in the form).

Q: I’ve forgotten my Athens username/password. What do I do?

A: To reset your password click here and enter your username and email address. Usernames are in the format nhs(first initial)(surname)(3 digits), for example nhsjbloggs001. If you can’t remember your username or have any problems accessing your account you can contact the library or email the regional administrator at athens.sdhct@nhs.net.

Q: I’ve moved to a new organisation. How do I update my Athens details?

A: If you have a new NHS email address login herewith your existing account and then click to “Change your email address”. Once entered, an email will be sent to your new address with a link and an activation code which you will need to click on within two days.
To change your organisation and other details login here with your existing account. Click to “Change your organisation” and fill in the online form. Once submitted, an email will be sent to your registered address with a link and an activation code which you will need to click on within two days.

Q: Can I print documents in Discovery Library?

A: Plymouth ICT registered users can print using the multifunction device in the library- please contact the library for details of current print arrangements.

Q: Can I photocopy or scan documents in Discovery Library?

A: Plymouth ICT registered users can print or scan using the multifunction device in the library-please contact the library for details of current print arrangements.
Reproduction must be undertaken within current NHS Copyright licence limitations.